Support of cochlear metabolic and ion transport processes solely by perilymphatic perfusion.

Morphologic considerations would seem to suggest that the cochlear duct could not be maintained in a fully functional state in the absence of a blood supply. We found, however, that perilymphatic perfusion could be used as a substitute for the normal vascular circulation. The criteria used to determine cochlear function included (1) normal endocochlear potential, (2) normal net secretory flux of rubidium (as a tracer for K), and (3) normal levels of ATP in both the organ of Corti and the stria vascularis. All criteria were satisfied by our perfusion regimen.